Centro Universitário Facens, Brazil

Metro Enlace: Empowering socio-emotional skills through innovative e-learning

Enlace - a department of Facens - created Enlace Metro, a Self-Instructional course. Through the narrative of a subway journey, students are invited to participate in the course for the development of socio-emotional skills, available on the Learning Management System.

Metro Enlace is divided into 8 routes, each with 3 or 4 stations, featuring theoretical content with interactive segments, curiosity sessions related to the theme, reference videos, animations with characters created to generate identification with students, tips for flourishing this skill, and reflective activities. The student is also invited to respond to a self-assessment comprising two questionnaires: the WHOQOL, which assesses quality of life in physical, psychological, social, and environmental domains, and also the PIL-TEST, which assesses Life Purpose. This assessment can be tracked on a panel by the student within the online system.

What the Judges Thought

The innovation of the university's approach is in its thematic area of focus engaging its undergraduate students in the development of soft skills, not just focusing on standard technical skills through inter and transdisciplinary approaches. Longitudinal mapping of their academic journey, supported by physical environments to enhance creativity and lived experience is truly commendable. The project has been taken beyond academic settings into the community, demonstrating holistic outcomes. 

What it Means to Win

“Winning this Award validates our commitment to sustainability and socio-emotional education, enhancing our institution's reputation and inspiring global collaboration. This achievement acknowledges our innovative efforts and motivates us to continue fostering holistic development within our community and beyond.”

Fabiano Prado Marques, Dean

Top 3 Learnings

1. Holistic education transforms lives, nurturing emotional, intellectual, and personal growth beyond traditional academics.
2. Innovation drives excellence, challenging norms to create dynamic learning environments for student success.
3. Empathy fosters connection, prioritizing well-being and personal growth to create a supportive academic community.